Disc Golf Course Coming to Walnut Creek's Walden Park

After last month's approval of a disc golf course at Walden Park by the Park, Recreation and Open Space Commission, Chris Dana is looking forward to having a place to gather with friends and play some rounds. 

Dana is a member of the Walnut Creek Disc Golf Club, a group devoted to the sport. It involves heaving a series of discs at a "basket," which is situated many yards from the "pad," which is a tee in golf. 

The PROSC approval means that the group will be able to install the course without city council approval. The course will be installed on Sept. 28, Walnut Creek's Community Service Day. 

Dana was kind enough to show this reporter how to play nine rounds at the disc course in Moraga. His expertise was apparent as he hurled his discs many yards toward the goal. My novice status was also painfully apparent, as my discs wobbled several yards before finding the ground. 

Disc Golf is played in fields with a lot of trees, so a course doesn't require a lot of upkeep or lush lawns. All one needs is a series of discs, a bag to carry them in, and the willingness to look foolish at first. After a while, the self-consciousness wears off and the fun kicks in. It's a great way to spend some time outdoors, even if you're not in the best of shape. 

So in addition to San Ramon, Moraga, and Berkeley, Walnut Creek will soon be home to a new disc golf course at Walden Park, "fore" better or worse.